Spiny hopsage

Grayia spinosa

Freely-branched semi-evergreen rounded shrub up to 5 ft. tall with dense green flower clusters, blooming March to July. Occurs on gravel and sands to heavy clays and highly calcareous alkaline soils free of salt and hardpans within sagebrush, saltbush desert shrub and pinyon-juniper communities; up to 9,000 ft. elevation. Branches are spine-like at the tips. Extremely drought tolerant, remaining dormant throughout hot, dry summer months. Somewhat wildfire tolerant; sprouts afterwards. Valuable winter to early spring browse for numerous wildlife, including bighorn sheep and black-tailed jackrabbits. Provides good cover for birds and small mammals.